Nairobi Arboretum
A tranquil 30-hectare green sanctuary in Nairobi, featuring diverse trees, abundant birdlife, and peaceful picnic spots.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tranquil escape, fewer crowds
Nairobi Arboretum
Best Time
Tranquil escape, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil 30-hectare green sanctuary in Nairobi, featuring diverse trees, abundant birdlife, and peaceful picnic spots.
"Peaceful Escape in the Heart of Nairobi! A hidden gem right in the city."
Carry Your Own Refreshments
Pack water, snacks, and a mat for a comfortable picnic experience.
Camera Fee Awareness
Be mindful of extra charges for professional cameras; consider if it's essential for your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Towering Indigenous Trees
Throughout the Arboretum
Wander among over 350 species of indigenous and exotic trees, creating a lush, green canopy.

Birdwatching Haven
Various clearings and near water sources
Spot over 100 species of birds, a delight for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Picnic & Relaxation Spots
Spacious fields and designated picnic areas
Enjoy a peaceful picnic or simply relax amidst nature's tranquility, away from city noise.
Monkeys in Their Habitat
Near tree canopies
Keep an eye out for Sykes and Vervet monkeys playfully navigating the branches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Entry Fees & Camera Charges
Best Time for a Peaceful Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Your Own Refreshments
Pack water, snacks, and a mat for a comfortable picnic experience.
Camera Fee Awareness
Be mindful of extra charges for professional cameras; consider if it's essential for your visit.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the many paths and trails with ease by wearing sturdy walking shoes.
Respect Wildlife
Observe birds and monkeys from a distance; avoid feeding them to maintain their natural behavior.
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Your Own Refreshments
Pack water, snacks, and a mat for a comfortable picnic experience.
Camera Fee Awareness
Be mindful of extra charges for professional cameras; consider if it's essential for your visit.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Explore the many paths and trails with ease by wearing sturdy walking shoes.
Respect Wildlife
Observe birds and monkeys from a distance; avoid feeding them to maintain their natural behavior.
Consider a Group Visit
For added safety, especially during quieter hours, visiting with friends or family is recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Nairobi Arboretum as an excellent, well-maintained natural space offering fresh air and diverse walking routes. It's a peaceful escape within the city, ideal for picnics, jogs, and photography, though some find the foreigner entry and camera fees a bit high.
"Excellent natural space. Very well maintained. Very fresh and clean air. So many different routes. One can come here multiple times and still take their due time to figure out the geography. You might find a new path every time you visit. So many tall trees. Also a good place to go jogging or running!
For foreigners, the entry is a little expensive - 716 KSH. But it's worth it if you like nature. In today's world, where everyone has mobile - I found it absurd for them to charge money if you have a bigger camera. The camera entry cost was 1322 KSH, so I asked them to store it till the time I came back. The park official was very kind and he waited for me to come back to return my camera even though his shift has finished quite some time ago.
Amazing place."
Puneet Raj Singh
"Very good spot for doing timed runs, the cobbled path of approximately 1km is well defined for lap times.
The environment is quiet and chill despite being towards the city centre.
Has spacious fields for other exercises or even picnics."
Henry Ochieng
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Peaceful Escape in the Heart of Nairobi! 🌳🦋
The Nairobi Arboretum is a hidden gem right in the city. It’s perfect for nature walks, jogs, picnics, or just escaping the noise for a while. The air is fresh, the trees are towering, and there’s a beautiful mix of birds and monkeys if you’re lucky! 🐒🌿
It’s clean, well-maintained, and very affordable to access. There’s also a nice sense of safety with guards around, though it’s always good to go in a group, especially during quiet hours.
Perfect for photoshoots 📸, morning workouts 💪, or weekend chill time with friends and family. Just carry your water, a mat, and your chill vibes. Highly recommend it!"
WILLIAM BILLY OKUMU
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Nairobi Arboretum is conveniently located on State House Road, just about 3 km from the city center. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public transport heading towards State House Road.
Yes, there is parking available at the Nairobi Arboretum, making it accessible for those arriving by private vehicle.
The Arboretum is situated near State House and is a short distance from the city center, making it easily identifiable.
Yes, you can use public transport that goes along State House Road. Look for matatus or buses heading in that direction.
Nairobi Arboretum is located approximately 3 kilometers from the central business district (CBD) of Nairobi, making it a quick trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Nairobi Arboretum varies. For locals, it's typically around 252 KSH, while foreigners may pay a higher fee, around 716 KSH. It's advisable to check for the most current rates.
Yes, there can be additional charges for using larger cameras for photography, which some visitors find expensive.
Nairobi Arboretum is generally open daily, typically from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. Specific hours can vary, so it's good to confirm before your visit.
Tickets are usually purchased at the entrance upon arrival. There isn't typically a need for advance booking for general entry.
While some visitors question the fee's allocation, the funds are intended for the upkeep and maintenance of the park's facilities and greenery.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy nature walks, jogging, running timed laps on the 1km path, picnicking, birdwatching, photography, and simply relaxing in a peaceful environment.
Absolutely! The Arboretum offers beautiful natural scenery, diverse trees, and abundant birdlife, making it a fantastic spot for photography.
While not explicitly advertised, you might find local guides offering services, especially for birdwatching. However, self-guided exploration is very popular.
The park is generally considered safe, with guards present. However, it's always recommended to be aware of your surroundings and consider visiting in groups, especially during less busy times.
Yes, Nairobi Arboretum is an excellent spot for picnics. There are spacious fields and designated areas perfect for spreading a mat and enjoying a meal outdoors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no formal restaurants or cafes within the Nairobi Arboretum itself. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics.
While there might be vendors outside the park, it's best to come prepared with your own provisions as options immediately surrounding the Arboretum can be limited.
The most popular way to enjoy food is by having a picnic. Bring a blanket, your favorite snacks, and enjoy the natural surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include areas with dense tree canopies, along the walking paths, near the river, and anywhere you can capture the diverse birdlife and lush greenery.
While general photography is allowed, there might be additional fees for professional camera equipment. It's wise to inquire at the entrance.
Nature photography, birdwatching photography, portrait sessions, and casual snapshots of the serene environment are very popular.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, creating a soft, diffused glow and beautiful shadows.
Drone usage is generally not permitted in public parks without special permits to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and wildlife. It's best to assume it's not allowed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye out for the Sykes and Vervet monkeys, which are always a hit with younger visitors. While observing wildlife, ensure children maintain a respectful distance and do not attempt to feed the animals. The well-maintained paths are also suitable for strollers, making it easier to navigate with little ones.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts & Runners
Beyond structured running, the park's numerous trails provide ample space for varied workouts, from brisk walks to more intense training sessions. The serene atmosphere, punctuated by birdsong, offers a refreshing change from urban gyms, allowing you to connect with nature while staying active.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
While professional camera fees exist, the park's natural beauty is undeniable. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best lighting conditions for capturing stunning shots. Remember to be patient and observant to capture the best of the Arboretum's avian residents and arboreal inhabitants.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Green Sanctuary in the City
The Arboretum is meticulously maintained, offering a refreshing escape with clean air and well-defined paths. Visitors can explore its diverse flora, listen to the symphony of birdsong, and enjoy the dappled sunlight filtering through the dense canopy. It's a place where the sounds of nature replace the urban clamor, offering a truly therapeutic experience for those seeking peace and quiet.
Beyond its ecological significance, the Arboretum is a popular spot for various activities. Whether you're looking for a place to jog, have a leisurely picnic, engage in birdwatching, or simply enjoy a tranquil walk, this green space caters to a wide range of interests. Its accessibility and natural beauty make it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.
Navigating Fees and Visitor Experience
Despite the fees, many visitors find the experience to be well worth the cost due to the park's excellent maintenance and the quality of the natural environment. The park officials are often noted for their kindness and helpfulness, as exemplified by one reviewer who mentioned an official waiting past his shift to return a stored camera. This suggests a commitment to visitor satisfaction.
For those looking to maximize their visit without incurring extra camera charges, consider focusing on smartphone photography or enjoying the scenery with your own eyes. The park offers ample opportunities for stunning shots, and the overall atmosphere of peace and natural beauty is the primary draw.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit